IIJS Tritiya 2024: The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) launched the second edition of the India International Jewellery Show – IIJS Tritiya in Bangalore, Karnataka. Held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) from April 5th to 8th, 2024, this event coincides with the India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME) for the first time. The IGJME highlights cutting-edge manufacturing technologies powered by digital tools and techniques.
Under the banner of “Brilliant Bharat,” GJEPC unveiled the theme for the next six editions of the IIJS. This theme aims to celebrate India’s rich traditions, cultural diversity, and innovative technologies, fostering the creation of extraordinary pieces. It invites exploration of India’s heritage, craftsmanship, and the warmth of its people.
During the inauguration, IIJS Tritiya was commended as the ‘Gateway to Global Gem & Jewellery Exports’ by esteemed dignitaries. Dr. Selvakumar, IAS, Principal Secretary of Industries and Commerce, Govt. of Karnataka; Dr. B Govindan, Chairman of Bhima Jewellery; Shri Vinod Hayagriv, MD & Director of C. Krishniah Chetty Group; Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman of GJEPC; Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta, President of Jewellers Association Bengaluru; Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman of GJEPC; Mr. Nirav Bhansali, Convener-National Exhibitions of GJEPC; and Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, ED of GJEPC graced the occasion.
This year’s IIJS Tritiya surpasses its predecessor in scale and sophistication, with over 900 exhibitors and 1,900 stalls spread across 40,000 square meters. Serving as a bustling marketplace, it offers invaluable networking opportunities for industry stakeholders. With over 15,000 pre-registered visitors from 500 Indian cities and 60 countries, the event underscores its global significance.
In addition to showcasing an extensive array of gold jewellery reflecting India’s heritage and craftsmanship, this year’s exhibition includes the India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME), spotlighting the latest machinery innovations and technologies from national and international spheres.
Dr. Selvakumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Govt. of Karnataka, said, “Karnataka’s gem & jewellery industry sets new benchmarks in entrepreneurship, excellence and innovation through technology. Karnataka’s skilled craftsmen are renowned for creating world famous for exquisite and intricate jewellery such as temple jewellery, antique jewellery and Nakash jewellery among others. IIJS Tritiya is a testament to India’s positioning as a hub for designer jewellery powered by smart technology. IIJS Tritiya reconfirms the industry’s commitment, contribution and collaborative efforts to increase gem & jewellery exports from Karnataka and south India.”
Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC said, “We are a USD 40 billion export industry today, but the scope and potential for further growth is immense, with the ever-increasing demand in the global gem and jewellery market. GJEPC is working closely with Government to secure favorable polices in the upcoming trade pacts for our sector including FTAs with GCC, Canada, UK and EU. Additionally, GJEPC has successfully pursued the government to introduce measures to facilitate ease of doing business in the e-commerce for retail exports of jewellery from the country, enabling Indian sellers to seamlessly deliver their products to global buyers.”
Dr. B Govindan, Chairman, Bhima Jewellery, said, “Investing in the jewellery industry not only creates jobs but also contributes significantly to the economy. It’s essential for every citizen to recognise its potential and participate in its growth. With proper support and industry knowledge, this sector can thrive, providing employment opportunities and driving economic development.”
Mr. Vinod Hayagriv, MD & Director, C. Krishniah Chetty Group, said, IIJS Tritiya will soon become the landmark show for the whole of India. The show has not only got bigger, but it’s got smarter – similar to Bangalore’s reputation as a smart city. We look forward to a very smart industry in the coming decade. I think $70 billion is a very doable target and with GJEPC being there at the helm, I think we could easily achieve that much earlier than 2030.”
Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC said, “The Council is focused on empowering MSMEs through initiatives like Common Facility Centres, Mega CFCs, Jewellery Park in Mumbai, Gem Bourse in Jaipur alongside digital platforms for enhanced marketing and sales. These efforts not only contribute to the industry’s expansion in the global market but also ensure its alignment with the principles of Viksit Bharat.”
Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta, President, Jewellers Association Bengaluru said, “We pledge unwavering support from the Jewellers Association, Bangalore (JAB), to ensure the industry’s continual growth and prosperity. With GJEPC’s commendable efforts and initiatives, our industry is on a path to greater organisation and success. As President of JAB, I extend our full support to GJEPC and all industry stakeholders. Thank you to everyone for joining this celebration, and here’s to the success of the second edition of IIJS Tritiya.”
Mr. Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC, said, “IIJS is India’s leading platform to facilitate gems and jewellery business. Between 3 shows and 9000 booths IIJS is the gateway for Indian gems and Jewels to the world. IIJS gives opportunities to MSME companies meet customers from across the world.”
“IIJS Tritiya has also become smarter, bigger and better than last year. It serves as a vast marketplace, providing invaluable opportunities for industry players to connect, collaborate, and thrive. IIJS Tritiya platform is an opportunity for MSME manufacturers to meet global buyers to reach international markets,” said Mr. Bhansali.
An MoU was signed by Mr. Vipul Shah and Dr. Chetan Kumar Mehta to boost gem & jewellery exports from Karnataka through initiatives led by GJEPC, including the Karnataka Jewellery Park.
Established in 1966 by the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India (GoI), the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) stands as a pivotal entity among several Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) initiated by the Indian Government. It was introduced to bolster the country’s export endeavors during the nascent stages of India’s post-Independence economy venturing into international markets. Since 1998, the GJEPC has operated autonomously. Serving as the apex body of the gems & jewellery industry, it currently boasts a membership of 8800 members within the sector.